PRESS RELEASE October 11, 2005

Armenian Energy Minister Meets U. S. Secretary of Energy

On October 11, 2005, Armenian Energy Minister Armen Movsisyan met with his U.S. counterpart, Secretary of Energy Samuel W. Bodman to discuss U.S.-Armenian cooperation in the energy sector.

Minister Movsisyan expressed appreciation for continuing U.S. assistance to the Armenian energy sector, and presented the current status of the energy sector reforms. The Energy Minister highlighted the need to build replacement energy capacity prior to the closure of the Metzamor Nuclear Power Plant. Minister Movsisyan said he looked forward to working with the United States on the development of alternative energy sources in Armenia , including geothermal and wind power sources.

It was suggested to explore the possibility for a U.S. - Armenian energy investment forum with participation of private sector and financial organizations.

Secretary Bodman expressed willingness to explore ways to assist Armenia on the issues facing its energy sector, based on relevant U.S. experience. The U.S. Secretary of Energy inquired on the status of the Iran-Armenia gas pipeline.

Ambassador Tatoul Markarian also participated in the meeting.

On October 12, Minister Movsisyan met with State Department officials, including Director of Office for Caucasus and Central Asia John G. Fox. The Minister of Energy presented the progress in the Armenian energy sector, long-term prospects for energy independence and security, and the status of the Iran-Armenia pipeline.